How to Clean Rough Tile Floors

How to Tile Around Curve
Written By
Faith McGee
Faith McGee
Published: Mar 3, 2010
Updated: Nov 20, 2021
1 minute read

Dirt acts like sandpaper to any type of flooring, so it's important to keep up a cleaning routine to prolong the life of your rough tile flooring.

Things You Will Need

  • Broom
  • Dishwashing detergent
  • Bucket
  • Brush
  • White towels
  • Buffing machine
  • White pad
  • Sealant
  1. Sweep the tile floor to remove the dirt buildup. For a thorough cleaning, remove all furniture and carpeting.

  2. Mix 2 tbsp. dishwashing detergent and 1 gallon of water. Use a dishwashing detergent that is pH neutral. Dip a bristle brush in the cleaning mixture and concentrate on heavily soiled areas of the tile. Repeat the process until you see the dirt lift from the tile flooring.

  3. Rinse the floor to remove any accumulation of cleaning mixture. Wipe the tile flooring down with white towels. Allow to completely dry before buffing.

  4. Rent a floor buffing machine from your local hardware store. Purchase a white buffing pad to use on the rough tile. Buff back and forth across your flooring to get an even shine.

The Drip Cap

  • A rough tile floor can show its age when dirt and debris get ingrained in the tile's intricate design or texture.
  • Sweep the tile floor to remove the dirt buildup.
  • Dip a bristle brush in the cleaning mixture and concentrate on heavily soiled areas of the tile.
  • Wipe the tile flooring down with white towels.

Photo Credits

Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images

Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images

Faith McGee

Faith McGee has eight years experience conceptualizing and producing print and web content for a myriad of real estate conglomerates. She has a Master of Fine Arts degree in creative writing from California College of the Arts. McGee has…

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